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Ontario Organization Helping Youth in the Judicial System

Forty years ago, a small program called Rebound was launched in Sarnia, Ontario, to help youth involved in the judicial system gain the skills needed to turn their lives around. Inspired by a U.S. life skills program for adults, Rebound was adopted by Lambton College for Youth and began in a room at the former St. Clair High School. Although it faced early funding challenges without government support, local companies in the Sarnia region stepped in to keep it going. The program soon gained traction within the local community.

Since its inception in 1984, with continued community support, Rebound has expanded to offer 21 programs, benefiting more than 40,000 youth to date. The organization has remained committed to its initial startup purpose while also striving to serve all youth who need help. The organization aimed to combat the stigma associated with being perceived as helping and catering solely to “bad kids.” Instead, the belief that all youth are capable of making bad decisions from time to time rather than being inherently bad was heavily emphasized.

With a team of 35 staff members, Rebound continues to provide programs specifically for youth in the judicial system. However, its offerings have grown to include a theatre program, a Dungeons and Dragons group, assistance in fitting youth for formal wear, support for forming rock bands, consent and relationship education, a drop-in hub, and resiliency and coping education. Every youth between the ages of 8 and 24 is welcome at Rebound, and nearly 2,500 individuals utilized Rebound’s programs in 2023.

Having been recognized with numerous Donner Canadian Foundation Awards over the years, Rebound recently hosted an open house at its Sarnia offices to celebrate its 40th anniversary. This milestone represented not just a number, but four decades of dedication, passion, and commitment to making a difference in the community and to the youth who had no one else lending them a helping hand. The celebration held in October featured a photo booth, performances by Rebound Rocks, and exhibits highlighting Rebound’s history and current initiatives.

The board president remarked on the significance of the agency’s philosophy, emphasizing that for the past 40 years, Rebound has advocated for the idea that young people are equal partners in the community. Engagement with youth was intentional; their voices were valued, and they were encouraged to make an impact.

Organizations like Rebound are what make a community, and a country, a better place to live. If you want to support this organization or find more information on it, we invite you to check out their website.

Source: Simcoe Reformer